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Hawick Rfc Backs Organ Donation Campaign

Hawick RFC is backing a national campaign to encourage more Scots to join the NHS Organ Donor Register.

The team unveiled their new strip emblazoned with a call-to-action for fans to help save lives as they gathered for training ahead of their first game of the season.

Currently, only 38 percent of people in the NHS Borders region have registered as an organ donor.

Everyday, three people across the UK die waiting on an organ transplant.

Derek Armstrong, head coach, said it’s an emotive issue the whole club wanted to get behind. He said: “We’ve always prided ourselves in being at the heart of the community and we want to do more to help increase the number of people in the Borders on the NHS Organ Donor Register.

“Thousands of people across the country are waiting on a transplant and they could be helped if more Scots registered as organ donors.

“We’re asking fans to think how they would feel if it was someone in their family that was waiting. It only takes a minute so make your wishes known now.”

Hooker Matt Landels has joined the Register. He said: “Like many people it was something I always meant to get round to but didn’t do it. If you would take an organ you should be willing to donate one. You can help other people live after you go. Don’t leave it until it is too late, join the Register now.”

Alister Pow, President of Hawick Rugby Club, said he is delighted they can help make a difference to others.

He said: “I’m so proud of our team. They’ve taken this very seriously, discussed it together and were positive they wanted to do something to help others. Anything we can do to help encourage more people to join the Register is a good thing for the community as a whole.”

And local lad Aaron Gray agrees. He was just 18 months old when he received a small bowel and liver transplant. Now aged 14, Aaron is living a normal life thanks to the NHS Organ Donor Register. He is delighted Hawick RFC is getting behind the campaign.

He said: “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the NHS Organ Donor Register. I’m too young to remember my transplant but I know how hard it was for my family waiting to see if I would get the operation that would save my life. I’m so thankful every day to my donor.

“It’s brilliant Hawick RFC is supporting the organ donation campaign. Please show your support by taking a minute to join the Register and you could help save a life like someone saved mine.”